EASA SIB 2014-03: Land and Hold Short Operations at U.S. Airports

What to do

Operators should assess through their safety management systems whether to participate in LAHSO and ensure that flight crews are trained and aware of their authority to decline LAHSO clearances if safety is compromised. Operators not authorized or unwilling to participate should communicate this in ATC flight plan comments and operations manuals. No explicit compliance deadlines are stated, but adherence to FAA authorization and training requirements is necessary for active participation.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin SIB No: 2014-03 provides guidance on Land and Hold Short Operations (LAHSO) at U.S. airports for commercial air transport operators from EASA Member States. It clarifies the distinction between "active" and "passive" participation in LAHSO, referencing relevant FAA orders and operational specifications. The bulletin applies to fixed-wing aeroplanes operating commercially in the U.S. and highlights that neither EU-OPS nor EASA-OPS currently contain specific provisions regarding LAHSO.

What changed

This bulletin introduces detailed information on LAHSO procedures applicable to EASA operators at U.S. airports, emphasizing the requirement for authorization under FAA OpSpec A027 for active participation. It also outlines the FAA's stance on foreign air carriers conducting LAHSO only with proper authorization and training. The document does not impose new mandatory requirements but provides clarifications and recommendations for operators.

Why it matters

Understanding LAHSO procedures is critical for commercial operators flying to U.S. airports to ensure compliance with FAA regulations and to maintain safety during landing operations involving intersecting runways or taxiways. Proper assessment and training reduce operational risks and help avoid potential safety compromises. Compliance teams and flight crews must be aware of authorization requirements and the pilot-in-command's authority to accept or decline LAHSO clearances.